NELSD Strengthens Special Education with New Director and Campus Supervisors

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 18, 2025
(937) 325-7615

NELSD Strengthens Special Education with New Director and Campus Supervisors

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio, July 18, 2025—The Northeastern Local School District (NELSD) is strengthening its commitment to student support with the introduction of a new special education leadership structure. At the heart of this change is the hiring of Mrs. Melissa Jewell as director of special education, officially approved by the NELSD Board of Education at its regular meeting held on Thursday, July 17, 2025.  

Jewell brings more than 15 years of experience in K-12 education, including six years in special education leadership, most recently as the director of special education for Clark-Shawnee Local Schools, where she oversaw district-wide compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), instructional planning, and staff supervision. Known for her collaborative leadership style, Jewell worked closely with building teams, parents, and service providers to create inclusive environments that promote access, growth, and equity for all students.

Jewell holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Biblical Studies from Kentucky Christian University. In addition, she has a Master of Science in Educational Leadership and a Master of Science in Special Education from Western Governors University. Jewell resides in Enon with her husband, John, who serves as assistant principal at Greenon Elementary School. Together, they have four daughters and a son-in-law. Two of their daughters are currently studying education in college, following in the family’s footsteps, while the other two are proudly serving in the United States Air Force.

In addition to the director position, NELSD has established two new special education supervisor roles—one at each PK-12 campus—to provide more direct, campus-specific support to students, families, and staff. Joining Jewell in this expanded leadership structure are two experienced and highly respected educators from within the NELSD community. Stacy Slusher will serve as special education supervisor at the Kenton Ridge campus and was approved by the Board of Education at the June 26th regular meeting. Betsy Vanhoose will serve in the same role at the Northeastern campus, with her appointment also approved at the July 17th meeting.

Both Slusher and Vanhoose are longtime intervention specialists in the district, well-respected for their dedication to students and their deep understanding of special education practices. This transition represents a natural next step in their professional growth and a benefit to their respective school communities, as it will meet the unique needs of our students and support their fellow educators. 

“As we continue looking for ways to strengthen support for students, families, and staff, it became clear that separating Special Education and Student Services into two dedicated roles would allow for more focused, consistent support across the district,” said Superintendent Jack Fisher. “This new structure reflects the evolving needs of our schools and honors the work that has brought us to this point. Melissa, Stacy, and Betsy each bring outstanding experience and commitment, and I’m confident they will serve our students and staff well.”

Most recently, these responsibilities were managed by dedicated individuals, with valuable support from the Clark County Educational Service Center (ESC). While that model served the district well, bringing these roles in-house allows for stronger, more consistent leadership within our buildings. NELSD will continue to collaborate with the Clark County ESC for other essential services, but this transition ensures day-to-day support is embedded directly within our schools and aligned with the district’s long-term goals. These changes were made by thoughtfully reallocating existing resources, allowing us to strengthen services for students without significantly impacting the overall budget.

“I’m honored to join the NELSD team and to work alongside Stacy and Betsy—both of whom have built strong relationships and earned the respect of their school communities,” said Melissa Jewell. “Together, we’re focused on building consistent, student-centered support that empowers educators and helps every student reach their full potential.”

As the district continues to grow and evolve, this team will play a key role in advancing inclusive practices, supporting staff, and ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. This work directly supports NELSD’s mission to provide students with a safe and respectful learning environment, empowered by strong leadership, staff development, and the support of our families and community.

Please join us in congratulating Melissa Jewell, Stacy Slusher, and Betsy Vanhoose as they begin their new roles. We look forward to the difference they will make for our students, staff, and families. 

About NELSD:
Northeastern Local School District (NELSD) is a public school district located in the northeastern portion of Clark County, Ohio.  NELSD serves approximately 3,000 students in grades PK-12 at two facilities across the district, Kenton Ridge Campus (PK-12), and the Northeastern Campus (PK-12). For additional information, visit www.nelsd.org. 

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